10 cat breeds and their typical eye shapes

Here are 10 cat breeds (types) and a brief description of each one's typical eye shape and appearance. Keep in mind individual cats vary, and “eye shape” can be affected by age, health and breeding.

1. Persian

• Eye shape: Large, round, and very open. Prominent, wide-set eyes give a doll‑like face.
• Note: Extreme brachycephalic Persians may have more rounded, bulging appearance.

2. Exotic Shorthair

• Eye shape: Large and round like Persians but slightly less protruding because of a shorter dense coat and flatter face.
• Note: Eyes convey a sweet, open expression.

3. British Shorthair

• Eye shape: Large, round to slightly almond depending on head shape; bold and widely set.
• Note: Mature males often have very full, round eyes.

4. Siamese

• Eye shape: Almond-shaped and slightly slanted, giving a striking oriental look.
• Note: Eyes are vivid blue and typically set obliquely.

5. Oriental (Oriental Shorthair)

• Eye shape: Almond-shaped and more elongated than Siamese; set slightly slanted.
• Note: Eye color varies; shape emphasizes the long, wedge head.

6. Maine Coon

• Eye shape: Large, slightly oval to round; expressive and set to follow the rectangular head.
• Note: Eyes give a rugged, alert appearance.

7. Abyssinian

• Eye shape: Almond-shaped and slightly rounded at the outer corner, giving a lively, inquisitive look.
• Note: Eyes often gold, green or hazel and are very alert.

8. Russian Blue

• Eye shape: Almond-shaped but gently rounded, producing a refined, slightly reserved expression.
• Note: Eyes are vivid green in adults.

9. Bengal

• Eye shape: Large, oval to almond; intense and forward-facing, contributing to a wild, alert look.
• Note: Eye color varies with coat and pattern.

10. Scottish Fold

• Eye shape: Large and round, creating a sweet, wide-eyed expression; folds in the ear can accentuate this look.
• Note: Folded ears plus round eyes make a very distinctive face.

Quick tips to read cat eyes:

• Round, very open eyes → often breeds with round heads (Persian, British).
• Almond or slanted eyes → oriental-type breeds (Siamese, Oriental).
• Large but slightly oval → medium/large breeds (Maine Coon, Bengal).
• Eye set (wide vs. close) and head shape strongly affect perceived eye shape.

If you want illustrations or photos comparing these eye shapes, say which breeds you prefer and whether you want domestic shorthair/moggie varieties included.